Chapter 41—Sacredness of Vows
The brief but terrible history of Ananias and Sapphira is traced
by the pen of inspiration for the benefit of all who profess to be the
followers of Christ. This important lesson has not rested with sufficient
weight upon the minds of our people. It will be profitable for all to
thoughtfully consider the nature of the grievous offense for which
these guilty ones were made an example. This one marked evidence
of God’s retributive justice is fearful, and should lead all to fear and
tremble to repeat sins which brought such a punishment. Selfishness
was the great sin which had warped the characters of this guilty couple.
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With others, Ananias and his wife Sapphira had the privilege of
hearing the gospel preached by the apostles. The power of God at-
tended the word spoken, and deep conviction rested upon all present.
The softening influence of the grace of God had the effect upon their
hearts to cause them to release their selfish hold upon their earthly
possessions. While under the direct influence of the Spirit of God, they
made a pledge to give to the Lord certain lands; but when they were no
longer under this heavenly influence, the impression was less forcible,
and they began to question and draw back from fulfilling the pledge
which they had made. They thought that they had been too hasty, and
wished to reconsider the matter. Thus a door was opened by which
Satan at once entered and gained control of their minds.
This case should be a warning to all to guard against the first ap-
proach of Satan. Covetousness was first cherished; then, ashamed to
have their brethren know that their selfish souls grudged that which
they had solemnly dedicated and pledged to God, deception was prac-
ticed. They talked the matter over together and deliberately decided
to withhold a part of the price of the land. When convicted of their
falsehood, their punishment was instant death. They knew that the
Lord, whom they had defrauded, had searched them out; for Peter said:
“Why hath Satan filled thine heart to lie to the Holy Ghost, and to keep
back part of the price of the land? Whiles it remained, was it not thine
own? and after it was sold, was it not in thine own power? why hast
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